AS part of the army’s rebasing programme, work has begun to transform the former RAF Lyneham base into a multi-million pound training facility for the armed forces.

The new college will bring together technical training for all three services at one location.

This makes it more efficient and cost-effective, while creating 900 construction jobs.

Much of the redevelopment will consist of upgrading and refurbishing existing buildings.

Training will take place on the former airfield.

The first phase of work includes the creation of new single living accommodation for 1,194 trainees and staff. It will provide purpose-built teaching facilities and a large outdoor training area.

There will also be a publicly accessible museum for the army’s Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.

Lyneham’s history of repatriating fallen military personnel will be preserved and honoured through a memorial dedication, a public garden of remembrance and an area within the museum.

Phase 1 of the work to transform the site is expected be completed by next autumn, when the first staff and students will arrive at the college.